Glamorgan Free Press

r11 ustard and Cress. ♦ Several 1,>t;r! reports of Easter concerts i and tea^ and the -it-tiiled adjudications at Toaypauuy Eisteddfod are unavoidably held over. At used the Pontypridd railway station tur travelling CD E<srer Monday, and upwards of 7,000 tickets were collected Lluri.-ig ilav. Tii,, Ferad.de Male Voice Society, which is under the lead rship cf Mr Gwiiytn Jones, s*.»e to be congratul.iten upcu their t-plemiid success in securing premier honours at Mountain Ash eisteddfod fin Monday lasS. 'ihe present choir is practically a new body of vocalists, and wne" it IK taken into contdaf-aticu thrj --horc period the Mountain A<-h t jst piece han been rehearsed, tiiair success is the nwre gratif ving. Fern- tlalians have ,vt-ry reason to be p 'oud of t{¡,.ir victory, and w sincerely wish '"Uvfilym bach and his rta-zi < very future success in the eid- teddfociic arena. The following "ir." wr}iciJ was delivered at 1'ontypririu on E^ter Monday, perplexed some of the > officials —" Edwards' Kaby sleep suo'esffu! An explanatory note readies us to the effect that, Haby, ?l«epl" was the title of Mr T. D. Edwards' successful prix- pstrt-song t\.r ladies" choirs at 'Xouvpandy Eiiteddtod. The popular Presid^n! of the Tonypandy Eisteddtod, Mr I? D;j, c'pd 1; generously towards the officials throughout. If they warned i^r anything i. wa. not his f*ul' tfccy not only had tne run of his St Id, but his house also. Whatever the constant* qng- at Tonvpandy Eisteddfod last Tuesday evening, whit tney wishfd for was light, and they had it in to.; form of a hallpenny <>!p. T«» f >rm any c'-pt:orl ot' what ic wt-, lik, V(;u ti) -3. crowd of people irL 1 preuieatm'-n! as Moses when tha A-elt out. The rs felt f< r the nva:-ic\ so t •. speak, aad the spei »• tors felt for the singers. Competitors who intend entering the bass N, solo tiie South Wales Mission Eisteddfod, itri 1;1' h":d at Pontypridd on Mvuuay, Alay trtt t; note ihat ri,v n, ait in L-y, v;t; B 1l A Ev.mber üf (11¡.ir »u>.i (,lrt.it:s :Ir¡ Ce d_jri their respective test puces, and t liiir; augurs for a SUCCrillJ ting. Ir.t'-nu- in competitors Tv-ai!d do well to write once to Mr E. Asiiton, il'2. Llsnov'-r Noad, Pontypridd, for list of sub>c:s and full particulars. 011 IvI(;p(1äv nming Miss Magsie Mii1 and Mr I)d. iJavies sang at the J*ai-ry fist edit tod Conceit, where they met with a. splendid reception, all their songs and the duett being loudly encored. In 1885 the ropul-iMon of Pontypridd was 14,000, to-day it is 33,000 At the Easter eisteddfodau no less than six of Aiiss Lily Richards' puails WIe successful in winning various competitions, five of them being under 12 years of ige—eloquent testimony to the efficiency ot Miss Kichards' tuition, The healthiest part in the Pontypridd district is the i'raig, whom* death-rate last year was only 0 3 per 1,000, the highest being the EhonddA Ward with a rate of 14 8, OnJy one death resulted irom colliery accidents tin icg the ye.ir. A Treforest lad on Monday attended a gYI7HJ\fa a!)ll" at Trtõbarrjs, t-aking train to Quakers' Yaru, from wheeco he walked to Treharris. His little brother, aged five, who wasldt at home, on seeing tne train pass his house, enquired „t his :n> ti.er, Is that C *s train ? On r- c^iviti^ a reply in the afflrniati ve, lia innocently asked, Where's Le gone to Quaker Oats ,J ,,hL- ie gone to Quaker Oats ,J CovT'cilir>r Tiios. GritSths, J P, Cynrimer, make^t a model chairman in every c^pait-nent. He enjoys big reputatio of being capable to turn in with aii classes. Mostly, he presides in lectures, concerts and other things divine, but on the other hand his is not narrow minded. It was a treat to hear his good and witty remarks at the Male Choir's banquet held at the Imperial flotel liit week. Mr Woods, a gentleman who came 1 roin the Isle of Man in order to attend the banquet, was rather taken aback by the proceedings, which were OF a substantial order. He paid the choir the highest compliment, and referred to tnem as beirii,' boys (if riie village, to which he wiaild give almost anything to belong. Duriog their 8tay 11.' Douglas ali th ir audi-tices were electrified with the singing. Weish music again Mr Blagborough, the great Yorkshire tenor, whose name was included in the toast list at the Porth Choir'rj btnquft, when asked to respond, wished to gi.rt1 a song instead, and sing he did co tie* great delight of the jolly company Before he reached the end oi ids I much admired serenade, the company gave vent t,,) :o.- !,e graciously thanked them. I The supporters of Mr F. Jndd (candidate for the fort'tcoinirg contest far a seat on tb., Hearts of O^k delegation Board) are encouraged beyond measure by the su::c-ss attending their efforts in promoting the candidature of an old and tried representative Members would do well to send off voting papers not later than Saturday.

R', Y\L CLARENCE THEATRE. "SOLDIERS OF THE QUEEN." The "Ckddiers of the Queen" Company, which occupies the boards of the Clarence Theatre this week, present a play which is precisely what they claim ic to be, viz., a new and original up-to-date military and historical play. The .'riù11S scenes depict numerous in- cidents in the recent Matabele War, and is splendidly enacted by an exceptionally strong company, as played with great success at the Britannia Theatre, Loudon. The plot is specially interesting and original, interspersed with comical incidents ad lib., which are, for the greater part, supplied by Mr Billy Ste- phens, F.O.S. Ths talentea actor, Mr Maurice H. Hoffman takes the part of Jack Willoughby (captain of (Tic Cape Mounted Rifles), and is as before stated, supported by a splendid ccm- pany. "THE TRAIL OF THE SERPENT." Miss F. Marriott Watson returns next week with her specially-selected company in the marvellously thrilling drama, "The Trail of the Serpent" (by F. Marriott Watson). Several original songs and dances are introduced into the performance of one of the most sensational dramas on record. Mr George Whitby enacts the part of "Sir Gerald Kingston," and "Mr Leon Ainscliixc" as his son and heir. The company also includes Miss Rota Rossiyn as "Ethel Maynaru.

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PONTY P HI D D GU A R DlAN S. Mr E. E. Davies presided at the ordinary meeting of the Pontypridd Guardians held on Wednesday, Mr Richard Morris moved his motion that the erection of the Llwvnypia Workhouse be proceeded with at once. The Clerk pointed out that the Board had no money at ho.r.i, anl it would complicate mat. ters if the raonsy was borrowed. Mr R. L. Phillips said that inasmuch as the present Workhouse was not full there was no hurry to proceed whh the Workhouse. Mr Thomas Jones, Main.ly, thought that the work should be carried out in the proper season. If delayed matters much t.hey would again have the winter before there., and another year would slip by. After further discussion Mr Morris withdrew his motion. Two applica- tions were received for the appointment of assistant-master at, the Cottage Homes at a ailary of £ 80 per atinvn:. Mr Morris moved that inasmuch as both applicants had not come up to the retirements, the Board should re- aidvetrtisie. Mr Piiys Davies seconded. Mr William Evans, Tonyrefail. moved that the Board offer a salary cf p<r onmtm. £ 30 was too small for a trained man. This was proved by the small u-ireber of applications re- ceived. When put to tne vote 14 voted for the motion and IT for the amendment. The chairman gave his ranting vote in favour ot the first motion, that the salary reamin as advertised. It was decided to re-advertise.

PONTYPRIDD DISTRICT COUNCIL. The L;i;hjy U,'2: i:!i,' of the Fontypriud District Council was held at the Council Offices Fontvpridd. on Tuesdav, Mr P. Gowin. J.P., • presidiiiT. The attendance included Councillors R. T. PJcharu;, (vice-chairman). H. M. Row hvhcl, W. :£-1. Gronow, W. Jones-Powell, Ed- Williams, D. R. Evans. R. L. Phillips, T. B. Evans. W. Lewis, H. Bramwell, W. T. Ley- shon, with the clerk, Mr H. M. Grover. An application from Mr Hopkin Jones to be registered as the "keeper of a common lodging house on the Tramroad was considered. Mr Supt. Cole recommended the application. He, with Dr Howard Davies, the medical officer, had. inspected the premises, and found the house would accommodate 121. persons. (Laugh- ter). The Chairman: Where is the other ha:f? (Renewed laughter). The application was granted. Mr Sibbering, the Taff Vale Railway en- gineer, wrote with reference to the condition of the railway bridge near Gelliwastad Grove. His company proposed to re-construct this bridge, and they considered this a favourable opportunity for the Council to have it widened. At present it v;as 18 feet wide, and if the CC>1ncil required it widened to 36 feet, then they would have to pay the cost of such widen. ing. If the company reconstructed the bridge they could not be compelled to make it wider. Mr Jones-PowdI thought if the bridge was to be altered, it would be well for the Council to have it widened. Mr James Roberts-sofa" he believed it was the company's intexition to widen the line at this point, and so increase the length of the bridge. They could oppose the widening of the line unless they granted them a wider bridge. He suggested they should ask Mr Sib- bering to submit a plan shewing the structure of the proposed new bridge. They would then know the cost of the widening. Mr Jones-Powell seconded, and the motion was carried. The Mayor of Blackpool wrote stating that the Royal Congress of Public Health would be hdd at that town, and asking the Council to send representatives there. It was decided to place the matter on the agenda for considera- tion at the next meeting. On the motion of the chairman. Mr Samuel Rowland was formally re-appointed sanitary inspector at a salary of JE110 per annum. Mr James RoSerts asked if they could not get the department to recognise both inspectors and so obtain a moiety of their salary refun- ded. According to the numerical strength of the district, he thought they were entitled to more than one inspectot The Clerk was instructed to enquire into the matter.. It was decided to -adver-tise for'tenders for cleaning and repairing the Town and Council clocks. Mr Edward Williams queried whether some- thing could not be done to the road in front of the Central Hotel, Trallwn, It was im- possible to pass along the road in wet weather unless they went by boat. The Surveyor said the work would come under the Private Street Work3. The Vice-chairman proposed that the road be kerbHl and channelled, and the Surveyor was instructed to take the usual steps.. The Surveyor submitted a report on the rural roads of the district. The Council de- cided to metal several portions of roads, and tj appoint a new roadman on the Eglwysilan roads. Mr T. B. Evans asked whether Howell Jjtreet, CClfynydd, improvements were being proceeded with. The Surveyor stated that Messrs Ellis and Lewis had served notices ob. jecting to the proposed improvements, and when those notices were withdrawn the work would be proceeded with. Inspector Rowlands reported one case of diphtheria at Fountain Terrace and one case of scarlatina on the Tramroad. Inspector Johns reported one case of scarla- tina in Ann Street, Cilfynydd. The case of scarlatina at 6, The Avenue, proved fatal. Inspector Rowland reported that he had in- spected the exits of. the Royal Clarence Thea- tre. and found them satisfactory in almost, every respect. It only took two and three quarter minutes to empty the theatre of its occupants on Easter Monday night. Mr Montague Grover, the Clerk, applied for Mr Levshon Richard Williams to act as his deputy-clerk. He knew the work thoroughly well, and had given him every satisfaction. The Chairman and others spoke in favourable terms of Mr Williams, and the appointment was made. At the conclusion of the Council meeting, M,' James Roberts proposed a cordial vote of thanks to the Chairman for presiding over the Council meetings during the past year. He had, as they anticipated, filled the chair in a very efficient manner, and from his past life they knew he was in every sense qualified to occupy the position. The proposition was seconded by Mr R. T. Richards, and supported by Mr Jones-Powel? and R. L. Phillips. The Chairman briefly responded, and thanked the members. He had done his best for the ratepayers, and meftibers of the Coun- cil, and he had received the hearty co-opera- tion of all the members and officials.

[A dc tilled report of the Tonypandy Gold Crown ii-itvddfod is printed on page 6.]

fountain Ash Cottage Hospital Eisteddfod. Tin fifth annual eisteddfod in aid of that popular institution the Mountain Ash Cottage Hospital, was held at the Poplar Grounds, Mountain Ash, en Easter Monday, under the most favourable circumstances possible. The msrnir.g dawned most threateningly, but towards the opening time the sun peeped out and a. most glorious day resulted. Upon the arrival 0: numerous special trains, crowds wended their way towards the field where most elaborate and substantial preparations had been mads for the huge attendance which was X.p3rt:1. A large pavillion was erected by Mr C. D. I-hi Hips, the inner part being decorated by numerous flags and streamers. Along the i'-vt of the stage choice plants were most taslefu'dv armnged. At the appointed time the eisteddfod was punctually opened. On the pia'rn: were the Right Honourable Lord Aber lare, Sir C. Hubert H. Parry. The Hon. Lyndhurst Bruce, H. Bonham Carter, Esq., director of Messrs Nixon's Colliery Company; Mr G'.vilym Jones, manager, Cwmpennar, 2t the committee; Mr Ebenezcr Morgan, Pen- ri'.iw.^eiher vice-chairman; Mr David Harries, treasurer, and Mr D. T. Evans, secretary. The presidents for the day were the Right Hon. Lord Aberdare and Sfr H. Bonham Carter. Mr Clifford J. Cory, J.P., who had also inten- ded presiding, was unavoidably absent. The adjudicators were: Vocal, Sir C. Hubert H. Parry, Mr Rhys Thomas, Mtis. Bac.. and Mi IIFivns, F.T!.C.O.; bands, Mr It. Stead; arts an l industries, Mrs Morgan Morgan, Mrs F. N. Gray, Mr A. Morgan, and Mr J. Am- conductors, Mr J. Williams, surveyor, in i Mr W. Bevan, Brynhyfryd, both of whom showed narked ability in the conducting of the Eisteddfod. Artistes, Miss R. A. Thomas ^Liinos Pennar), and Miss S. A. Jones; ac- companists, Mr R. Howells, Maesgwynne, an i Mr T. D. Jones, Plasrnarl. The preliminary contests were held in large tents situated in close proximity to the Pavilion. The adjndi caters being Mr Rees Thomas and Mr Harry Evans. Sir C. Hubert Parry acted as chief adjudicator in the pavilion. The attendance at the opening, which included the elite of the district, W3.3 exceptionally good, and greatly surpassed all previous occasions.. Amongst those present were observed Lady Aberdare. The Hon. Misses Bruce, The Hon. Clarence Bruce, Mrs Bonham Carter, Mr anl the Hon. Muir Mackenzie, London; Mr and Miss Knox Mtrgan, Rev B. ijloyJ, B.D., R.D. chairman of the Hospital Committee; Majo- and Mrs Morgan, Dr and Mrs E. P. Evans, Dr R. W. Jones, and Mrs Jones, Dr David Jones, and Mrs Jones, Mr W. P. Nicholas and Mr G. Jones, solicitors, THE COMPETITIONS. PIAKOFOltTE SOLO. The first competition disposed of was a pianoforte solo for juniors, the test piece being Sir C. H. H. Parry's "Resignation," for which a prize of El Is was offered. There were three selected to play in the pavilion, and the prize was awarded to Miss Maria Williams; Maesteg. A protest was, however, lodged, it being alleged that she was Beyond the age allowed in the competition. In the event of it being sus- tained the prize will go to the second competi- tor, viz., Master T. J. Edmunds, Mountain A EISTEDDFOD SONG. Following this event the Eisteddfod song was given by Miss R. A. Thomas (Llinos Pennarl. This talented singer gave an admirable render- ing of "Gwlad y Delyn." CONTRALTO SOLO. "Children's Ways" (Gerald Lane) was the test piece selected for the contralto solo, the prhe of two guineas was divided between Miss Anne John, Abercarn, and Miss Eunice Thomas, Glais, Swanser), Valley. The adjudi- cator observed that the second displayed better phrasing, but an excellent musical performance was given by both contestants. PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. At this point Mr H. Bonhan Carter delivered his presidential address. After explaining the object of the Eisteddfod—the providing for their Cottage Hospital—he observed that the last year's report told them that noble insti- tution was increasing in its usefulness from year to year. (Applause). It had been es- tablished now over three years and a. half, and consequently had tested its usefulness. Twenty sir patients had been successfully treated in the hospital last yea.r up to October, and since then the hospital was continually improving Several bad cases had been treated, and pa- tients had gone out convalescent. (Applause). It gave him great pleasure in noting that the Eisteddfods held contributed considerable sums towards the maintenance of the hospital. The first year E470 was contributed from this source; second year, £336; and the third wear, R308. Last year they could not expect much result owing to the ill-luck which had attended it. £ 128 was, however, subscribed, an amount which was quite sufficient to pay the current expenses of the hospital. The hospital were now in the proud position of having got an invested capital ofL546 to de- vote, if necessary, to unexpected occasions. (Applause). Lady Aberdare had been persua- ded that more beds were wanted for the very serious cas.es, and she had generously increased U em by building one or two wards for such cases as these. (Applause). After referring to the numerous entries for the contests at the Eisteddfod, which amounted to 265, Mr Carter remarked that they were very fortunate n obtaining the services of Sir Hubert Parry,who hld greatly inconvenienced himself to be pre- sent. That was the first time that he (the speaker) had had the pleasure of coming amongst them, and he could assure them that he had been welcomed with much. enthusiasm. (Applause). LTO SOLO. Out of eieht competitors who competed in this competition, the test piece being "Come unto me" (Willem Coenan), for which a prize of one guinea was offered, the prize was se- cured by Master David John Thomas, Plas- I niarl, Swansea. TWO PART SONG. "There's a friend for little children" was se- lected as the test piece for the two part song, prize, £ 1 Is. Two pnrties competed—(1) Miss IC. Jones' party, Troedyrhiw; (2) Mr David John Lewis' party, Ferndale. The prize was awarded to No. 1, and a special prize of 10s 6d generously given by Mr H. Bonham Carter, was awarded to the second. In the aijudica- tion it wan said that the first party had paid- more attention to detail, and that there was a great deal of nervousness displayed in both performances. JUVENILE CHOIR COMPETITION. Great interest was evinced in this competi- tion owing to the keen rivalry existing between the two choirs which competed—both of Moun- tain Ash-and the result was received with a great amount of cheering. The test piece was "The Angel of Rain" (Dr Roland Rogers). First prize, £ 10, and e, portrait of himself, value £3 3s, presented to the conductor by Messrs A. and G. Taylor, Cardiff; second prize, £ 4, and a volume of the "Strand Maga- zine." to the conductor, given by Messrs G. Nawneta, Ltd., The choirs were Bethania, conductor, Mr Albert Llewelyn; Gobaith y Khos, conductor, Mr Samuel Powell. The prizes were awarded in the order given. TENOR SOLO. A prize of L2 2s, which was given for the best rendering of the tenor solo. "When we two parted," was captured by Mr Percy Mer- day, Cardiff. Three competitors appeared on the stage, inclutung the tztnious singer Gwyn- alaw. VIOLIN SOLO. Mr S. J. Davies, Swansea, gave the finest performance of the violin solo, "Idvll" (Mr C. n. H. Parry), for which a prize of P.1 Is was given. Miss Cicely Tilney was awarded a special second prize of 10s 6d. Four con- testants competed in this competition. BARITONE SOLO. "The Maid of Elsincre" (Sir C. H. H. Parry), was the chosen test piece, prize L2 2s. Mr G. T. Llewelyn was the successful contest- ant out of four, which appeared on the stage. GLEE FOUR PART SONG. Up to this point of the day's proceedings, this was one of the best performances. The limit of the number of voices for each choir was 35. Ten pounds were given as a. prize for the best rendering of "How Sweet the An- swer" (Sir H. H. Parry), and a silver plate, Value zCl, presented to tho conductor. Three choirs competed—(1) Abercanaid Choir, con- ductor, Mr John Skim; (2) Mountain Ash Cl'oir, Mr Edwin Williams; (3) Ebenezer Choir Swansea, Mr T. Morris. The last choir named were adjudged the best. Sir H. H. Parry, in giving 1irs adjudication, complimented the choirs upon the remarkably good performances they had given, further adding that they were of an extraordinary refined character. SOPRANO SOLO. Miss Clam Novello Davies's "Voice from the Spirit Land" was the test piece for the soprano solo. Miss Jennet Garnet secured the prize of L2 2s out of three competitors appear- ing in the final. ENGLISH RECITATION. "lanthe Sleeping" was feelingly recited by two chosen competitors, who appeared on the stage. Miss Gwenllian Williams, Treherbert, was awarded the prize of £ 1 Is, amidst much cheering. BASS SOLO. Out of eight contestants in the bass solo, "Old King Time" (J. Duffell), prize, £2 2s, two appeared on the stage. The prize was carried off by Mr G. T. Llewelyn, Port Talbot. AFTERNOON MEETING. At 2.30 the afternoon meeting commenced. The weather was delightful, and the crowd had swelled by many hundreds, so that when the afternoon president (Lord Aberdare) rose to deliver a few remarks, the pavilion was crowded, as was also the field outside. Lord Aberdare, who received a flattering reception, commented upon the beautiful weather which bd favouretl the Eisteddfod, and congratula- ted the committee on the presence among them that day of such a distinquisehd musician as Sir Hubert, who was not only a musician, but an accomplished athlete as well, and the fact that he captained the Eton XI. in his early days was a fact that would appeal strongly to nil Welshmen. (Applause). Referring to Sir Hubert's pointed observations in the different competitions, Lord Aberdare said he hoped they would pay heed to them, for assuredly they would benefit by them. (Applause). His Lordship then called upon Mr Harry Evans to lead the audience in singing the well-known congregational hymn-tune, "Crugybar, and quite an inspiring performance of that fine old melody was given, the whole of the vast audi- ence participating. CHIEF CHORAL COMPETITION. At three o'clock the chief contest of the day viz., the chief choral competition, was alL nounced. By this time the spacious marquee was literally packed, the excitement war at its highest pitch, and the interest evinced was ot the keenest character. The test piece was, "Lead, kindly Light" (Harry Evans, F.R.C.O.), open to all choirs of between 150 to 180 voices, for which, a prize of £100 was offered, and a gold medal presented to the conductor. Five choirs entered: (1) Cwmavon. conductor, Mr H. A. Hill; (2) Newport (Mr Fred Jones), (3) Pontycymmer (Mr James Garfield), (4), Ponty- pool (Mr Walter Protheroe), (5), Dowlais Mr Evan Thomas). The choirs competed in the above order. Sir Hubert Parry, at the close of the contest, gave his adjudication. He said that they ha7d heard a very fine-exhibition of singing, some of it of a very high standard. This being so, it became necessary to judge on very delicate points indeed, and while the personal predilections of the friends of the various choirs would make it difficult for them to appreciate these points, he had no hesita- tion in deciding which was the best- choir; it was No. 2. ((Loud, continued applause, and cries of "Newport pia hi.") After order had been restored, Sir Hubert proceeded, and pointed out that one of the small defects which he noticed with the singing of almost each choir was that when they wanted to hear a choir sing very softly, they wanted a round tone, and that. could only be obtained by re- straining the breath, and when a choir became excited this was impossible. Only the winning choir had done this on the pianissimo portions of the test piece. Another point was that ow- ing to the same excitement they were unable to hold on the pianissimo in the latter part of the test piece of the same tone, the moral of it all being that while he loved keenness and hesrtiness, those qualities should be held on tha balance by accuracy. (Hear, hear). SECOND CHORAL COMPETITION. In this contest, which was open to choirs of between 60 to 100 voices, there were four en- tries. viz., (1), Troedyrhiw (conductor, Mr O. T. Jones); (2), Abercarn (Stephen Allsopp); (3), Blaengarw (Mr T. E. Richards); (4) Peny- darren (Joseph Lewis). The test piece was "Pa le mae Gwaredwr Israel?" (Glyndwr Rich- ards). The prize was L-20. The choirs sang in the order given above. Sir Hubert Parry, in his adjudicatio-n of their performances, lampooned the pianoforte accompaniment. When the choirs were trying to sing a beauti- ful piano passage with the delicacy it required, that hideous pianoforte accompaniment com- pletely spoilt the whole effect. Speaking of the singing, Sir Hubert said it did not quite reach such a hi?h standard as the chief choral. As a matter of fact, it had some conspicuous defects, many of which were doubtless ar- cenuated by that jungling piano. On the whole the singing of choir No. 4 was the moBt refined, and to them would be awarded the prize. The prize offered by the committee for tli2 best soloist in any choir would go to No. 2. This successful soloist was Mr W. E. Games, Aberearn. MALE VOICE COMPETITION. Unusual interest was also taken in this con- test, the vast assemblage paying the strictest attention to each performance. £ 30 was given as a first prize for the best rendering of "Anna- belle Lee" (Dr J. Parry) and B10 as second, choirs to consist of between 60 and 80 voices. Four parties competed in the following order: (1) Cwmbach (conductor, Mr Samuel Davies); (2; Ferndale (Mr Gwilym Evans); (3), Resol- ver (Mr W. Davies), (4) Abernman (Mr Thos. Phillips). In delivering his adjudication, Sir Hubert said that the singing of the second choir was most perfect. The whole of the choirs had really given fine performances. No. 2 were awarded the first prize and No. 4 the second. COMPOSITION OF A PART SONG. A prize of JE2 2s was awarded to Mr T. D. Edwards, Pontypridd, for the best composition of a part song suitable for children's voices, S.S.A. The adjudicator pointed out that many jf the contestants were rather common in their style, and did not show a liberal acquaintance with fine class music. PIANOFORTE SOLO. The pianoforte solo by Sir C. H. Parry, "Pre- lude" (open to all comers), prize, £ 2 2s, was won by Miss Maggie Jones, Waenwen. Two contestants appeared in the final. BRASS BA2JD COMPETITIONS. In Class A there were eight competing bands viz., (1). Arael Griffin, (2) Temdale, (3) Aber- are, (4) Tillery Collieries, (5) Mountain Ash, (61 Trebanos Sifver, (7). Ystalyfera, (8) Dow- lais. Mr R. Stead remarked that the contest was an exceptionally good one. A distinct im- ptcvement was observable, and he thougM, if the Lancashire bands came down that they would have to look to their laurels. The prizes went to (1) Arael Griffin (2) Ferndale, ( j, Aberdare. Second brass band contest (Class B), open to all comers, "Gems of Modern Melody' Wright and Round). Nine bands played in tile) following order: (1) Nelson Temperance Band, (2) Coifs Temperance Band (Pentre), (3), Deri Temperance Band (4), Trebanos Sil- ver Band, (5) Pentre Volunteer Band, (6) Ton- yrefail Temperance Band, (8) Aberaman Silver Band, and (9) Abertillery Town Band. The first prize of £10 was wen by the Tonyrefail Silver Band, which also won the prize earlier in the day at Tonypandy. The second prize of P,7 was taken by the Trebanos Silver Band, and the third prize by the Cory Temperance Band. DRUM AND FIFE BAND COMPETITION. The test piece was "11 Trovatore," first prize, E12; second. L8, third, P,4 and fourth, LZ. The first prize was won by Mountain Ash St. Mary's Catholic; second, Mountain Ash Rechabite; third, Brynaman; fourth, Llwyn- ria Temperance. ARTS AND INDUSTRIES. In this competition the prize £ 1 Is for the best drawing in light and shade was won by "W. Clittle," and in the needlework depart- ment for the working of a cushion in any de- sign (prize, a ladies' silver watch), first honours were won by "W.E.G." The names of the winners did not transpire. AMBULANCE COMPETITION. Four prizes, viz., P.2, P.1 10s, Ll, and 10s, were offered in this competition. The success- ful detachments were: 1st Nantwent; 2nd, Albion, Cilfynydd; 3rd, Cory Temperance (Pentre), 4th, Cwmbach. After the termination of the proceedings it was ascertained that over E500 had been taken at the gates alone, and that the attendance must have exceeded 12.000. This far exceeds the number which attended on any previous occasion.

— Ynysybwl. A very successful Eisteddfod was held at Noddfa Chapel on Wednesday afternoon. The conductor was the Rev Theophilus Jones, who kept the audience in high humour with his humourous remarks. Mr E. Williams (Crib- bin Dy), was the adjudicator of the music, and the Rev W. E. Davies and Mr Henry James (Trelinfab), the adjudicators of the literature. Mr W. Williams (Guardian) hav- ing given the opening song, the competitions commenced, resulting as follows: Alto solo, "Bu genyf fam a thad, Mr David Maddy; Miss M. Hooper won the silver medal in ihe recitation (English); Master William S. Jones securing the second prize, the brothers Jones between them obtained the prize for the Welsh recitation; Master Albert Davies carried off the prize for the best execution of the violin solo; Mr Tom Judd came off best in the com- petition on the tenor solo, "Dacw'r bwthyii gwyn y'm ganwyd;" although only one per- son competed on the essay entitled, "The Elssctntials of Character," the adjudicators, without hesitation, declared him to be well worthy of the prize. In giving his adjudica- tion, Mr Davies highly complimented the writer (who turned out to be Mr Silas Wil- liams) upon the keen intellect and thoughtful mind displayed in the essay. He believed the writer was a Welshman, and if he had written in the vernacular it would have been a readier vehicle for his striking thoughts, and the essay would have been even better than it was. In coming forward for the prize, Mr S. Wil- liams was enthusiastically received. The next competition was for the best impromptu speech, the prize for which was divided between Messrs William Williams and Silas Williams Mr Tom Williams gave the best rendering of the baritone solo, "Pinael Anrhydedd," and Misses M. Hooper and Lizzie Morgan obtained the first and second prize respectively in the "Spelling Bee" competition. The prize offered for the best rendering of the soprano solo was divided between Misses S. A. Jenkins and E. Jcnes. Mr James Lewis' party won the prize in the quartette competition, and Mr Lewis Webb was an easy winner in the first sight sitfging competition. Three choirs entered for the chief choral competition, of which the win- ner was Tabernacle Choir, conducted by Mr James Lewis.

Pontypridd. An Eisteddfod under the auspices of thb local Unitarian Church was held at the New Town Hall. Mr L. N. Williams;, Aberdare, presided, Mr Morgan, Pontypriidd, conducted, and Mrs Lewis, Top-hill, Pontypridd, accom- panied. The adjudicators were: Music Mr Fred Griffiths, A.R.A.M.; literature, Brynfab and Mr Joseph David, Pontypridd. The com- petitions and winners were:- Pianoforte solo, Miss Mabel Coombes, Pont, ypridd. Juvenile solo, Master J. Price, Porth. Recitation, Miss Price, Cilfynydd. Soprano solo, Miss Blodwen Coslett. Ponty- pridd. Baritone solo, divided between L!ew Llan, Pontypridd, and Mr Jacob Hughes, Hopkins- town. Tenor solo, Mr Tom Cynon, Aberdare. Contralto solo, Miss Blodwen Coslett, Pont- ypridd. Englyn on "Daoansoddydd," Carnelian, Pontypridd. Recitation. "The Wind in a Frolic," divided between Miss Pearce, of Cilfynydd, and Enid Lewis (tho little daughter of Mr John Lewis, Tophill). "Y Pyramid," 40 lines, won by Ap Ionawr. Essay in the form of a letter describing the locality in which competitors reside, open to children attending the elementary schools, prize divided between the Misses Davies, Ash- ton, and Curnow, all of Cilfynydd. An Eisteddfod,, under the aupices of the South Wales Mission Sunday Schools, was held at the Lesser Town Hall on Friday evening. The Rev T. Jones presided, supported by Rev T. Rowdands, and Messrs E. Ashton and Gomer (Thomas. Adjudicators: Music, Mr J. P. Powell, Cardiff; poetry, Rev T. J. Pritchard. Cardiff; recitations. Messrs M. Dyer, Cilfyn- ydd, and W. J. Davies, Pontypridd; litera- ture, Revs T. Jones and T. Rowlands; accom- pnist, Miss Dyer; treasurer, Mr Morgan, Abercynon. The secretarial duties were dis- charged by Mr E. Camo Morgan, Ynysybwl. The principal awards were: Alto solo,, "Deio Bach," won by Miss Claudia Edwards, Cilfyn- Bach," won by Miss Claudia Edwards, Cilfyn- ydd; recitation for children under 15, "Mat r Johnny Puw a'r Cieliog-wydd" (o'r "Win'lan") 5 competed, won by Miss Ross, Abercynon; soprano solo, "The Wandering Sheep" (San- key), 3 competed, won by Miss H. Jones, Cil- fynydd tenor solo, ""Dyffryn Clwyd" ("Songs of Wales"), Mr Ben Price, Abercynon; bari- tone solo, Mr Price, Abercynon; recitation for children under 10, Hymn 1020. prize divided between the Misses Ross, Abercynon; essay, "Taith Israel o'r Aifft i Ganaan," Miss M. Humphreys, Abercynon; essay, "Y Cyfeiliorn- adau a dybir a'r modd y cyfarfyddir a hwy yn Epistol 1 loan," Mr Evan Humphreys, Aber- cynon; children's choir, "Yr Ysgol Sul" (T. D. Edwards), two choirs competed, Carmel, Aber- cynon, conducted by Mr Ben Price, and Sion, Cilfynydd, conducted by Miss Dyer; Carmel won the prize, the singing of Miss Dyer's choir, being highly commended; impromptu speech, none of the five competitors were deemed worthy of the prize. There was a good at- tendance, and everything passed off pleasantly. a

Llantwit Fardre. Under the auspices of the Llantwit Fardre Welsh Baptist Church, the twentieth annual eisteddfod was held on Good Friday. There Wi'S a large attendance durjng 'the day. Mr D. Cule, of Bridgend, presided ,and the Rev Thomas Richards, pastor of Salem Chapel. jlffiaiateJ a3 conductor. The adjudicators were: Music, Mr D. H. Thomas (Mus. Bac.), Tredegar; literature, Mr Thomas Williams (Brynfab), Aber; the acoompanist was Miss Edith Williams, Church Village. The posts of and treasurer of thp eisteddfod wero efficiently filled by Mr T. Williams and Mr Israel respectively. Mr Gwilym Jenkins, of Llantrisant, having sung the opening song, the president delivered a short address upon the history of Salem Chapel, in which he compared its present flour- ishing condition with what it was 40 years ago. Girls 'Solo Competition.—For the rendering of "Dos Cuddia" (which was confined to girls n fl. over 15 years of age), nine competed, the prize being divided between Miss Katit- Thomas, Treforest, and Miss Urina Thomas, Tonyrefail. Rceitation.-The, recitation of "Sion, Ynys- hir, was keenly contested. The prize was won by Mr James Hughes, cf Holly Bush. Baritone Solo.—A great deal of interest was taken in this competition. "The Awaken- ing" was the song selected for the contest, in which no less than nine competed. Mr Row- land Davies proved the winner of the prize of 10s. Writing Music from Ear.—Mr Thomas Da- vies, of Aberaman. was declared the winner in a test or writing music from ear. Tenor Solo Com petitioTi.El even contestants took part in this competition, the successful one being Mr R. C. Davies, Tylorstcwn. "Bwthyn Bach Melyn fy Nhad" was the song rendered. Juvenile Cihoir Comretition.-Two choirs, not over 40 in number, entered the above com- petition. The test piece was "Storm the Fort oe Sin," and the prize offered was £ 2. Taber- nacle Choir, Pontypridd (conductor, Mr J. Griffiths), won. Alto Solo.—Four competed winner, Master Thomas Davies, Abercynon. Recitation for Girts.Ymdaith i Seion" was the piece recited by girls not over 15 years of age. Prize divided between Miss Blodwen Roderick, Tonyrefail, and Miss A. M. Roblin, Llantwit. Tenor Solo—Mr R. 'C. Davies. of Tylors- town, won the prize of 10s 6d for the best ren- dering of "Rhosyn Unig." "Y By,,vTdfdd. "-This was the recitation se- lected for open competition. The first prize wa3 awarded to Miss Cordelia Rees, daughter o? the Rev W. Rees, Hopkinstown, and the second prize to Master W. J. Harris, Aber- aman. Soprano Solo.Oiit of a large number of competitors, Miss Jennet Hughes, Treforest. won the prize offered for the best rendering of "Hen Gadair Freichiau fy Nhad." Chief Choral Competition—Thds competi- tior was the chief event cf the day, and it proved a great attraction. Five choirs en- tered, viz., Penuel, Pontypridd; TonyrefaH Choir, Tabernacle. Pontypridd; Temple Choir, Pontypridd; and Town Hall Choir, Ponty- pridd. The test piece sung was "FLI wyr Seion." The choirs sang in the above order. Mr Thomas, in delivering his adjudication, said the choirs had sung remarkably well. The first choir possessed beautiful voices, fairly ba. lanced. The bass was rich, and tone good. The cadences could have been better, and the relief was a little too loud. There was no contrast in the various movements. On the whole they gave a creditable performance. The second choir opened woll. effective singing, splendid voices all round. The various parts were well carried out. The piano was sung as piano, and the forte as forte. The gave a re- markably good rendering. Third Choir: Voices not so pure as in the previous choirs. They did not sing together. In the last part the time was too fast. It was a fair perform- ance- Fourth 'Choir: Voices fair, rather harsh. The tune was commenced well, but was no; so at the latter part. There was not sufficient variety in the performance. The in- tonation though was very pleasant. Fifth Choir. This choir consisted of a splendid body or voices, but the time was too fast. They gave a very fair performance on the whole. He noticed the conductor of this choir was rather young in years, and trusted that he would stick to it, as there ♦ns a future before him. After fairly weighing the merits of the choirs he awarded the prize of L5 lo the second choir (Tonyrefail). Mr Richards, the conductor, ;> wa-. duly invested with the prize. J On Good Friday evening, following the eis- teddfod, the annual concert was held at Salem Chapel, when there was a large and apprecia- tive audience present. Mr T. Davies Ponty- pridd, presided. The artistes were: Miss Olive Grey, R.A.M., Pontypridd; Mrs Annie Evans, Pontypridd; Mr David Chubb, Llan- tv.-it; and Mr D. Evans, Abercynon. An en tertaining programme was provided, and the artistes acquitted themselves admirably, and received frequent encores. Miss Edith Wil- liams, Church Village, made an efficient accom- panist.

Cosen, Cwmclydacfi. On Good Friday, the first eisteddfod was held at Gosen Congregational Chapel, the pro- ceeds being in aid of the chapel funds. The- chairman was District Councillor R. S. Grif- fiths, J.P., who acquitted himself admirably. Mr Tom John, Llwvnypia, was conductor, and kept the meeting all day in a lively ferment and bubble by sallies and jokes. The adjudi- cators were Mr Webber, G.T.S.C. (music), and Rev G'wrliyd Lewis, Tonyrefail (recitation), and Mrs Waiters and Mrs Jones, Blaenclyd- acit, on the prizo bags: bread, Miss Collins, cookery instructress; while Mr Ben Davies, who afterwards conducted the successful male voice party at the Tonyixindy Gold Crown Eisteddfod, was an efficient accompanist. The Rev Mr Walters was chairman of the com- mittee, and since his advent to the church he has been indefatigable in his labour, and has an excellent helpmeet in Mrs Walters, who h,,• won golden opinions from all; Mr James Morris was an energetic secretary, and Mr James Thomas the careful custoidan of the funds. The chairing ceremony was duly per- formed in orthodox fashion, under the direc- tion of Gwrhyd, assisted by Ap Rhydderch, and other bards. This is the first eisteddfod, and was a capital success, and it is intended t, make it an annual function. The successful competitors were: Solo (girls under 14), "Dyffryn Clwyd," first, Nellie M. Richards, Treharris; second prize, Rebecca Hopkins, Clydach Vale; recitation (children under 10), Hymn 718 from the "Caniedydd), Evan Jones, 73, Thomas street, Blaenclydach; pianoforte solo (children under 14), first prize), Harriet Jones, Clydach Vale. Prizes were also given by Mr Rees Griffiths to Lawrence, Tonypandy, and E. M. Jones, Clydach Vale. Essay on "Abraham," Mr T. R. Williams,. Llanilltyd Vardre; central'to solo, "He was despised," Miss Jane Haddock, Treherbert; recitation, Y dall yn cael ei olwg," Mr Joseph Davies, Blaenclydach; prize bags, first prize, Miss Lizzie M. Jones, Blaenclydach; second prize, Miss Edwards, Commerce House. Tonypandy; third prize, Mrs Thomas, Blaenclydach; elegy to the late Mr James Jones, Blaenclydach, Mr Daniel Owen (Ap Rhyddereh), Porth; child- ren's choir, "Gospel Bells," Cottage Choir, Clydach Vale, conducted by Mr Isaac Thomas; soprano «>lo, "Llancesau'r Er-yri," Miss Amy Evans, Tonypandy; love letter, Mr David J. Treharne, Ferndale; violin quartette, "Ama- teurs," Clydach Vale, conducted by Mr John John; tenor solo, "The Ship and the Light- house," Mr W. E. Davies, Tonyrefail; best. leaves (white bread), first prize,. Mrs Thomas, Court street, and Mrs Simon Davies, 76, Jones street; second prize, Mrs S. Davies, 76, Jones street,, Blaenclydach; brown bread, first prize, Mrs Evans, 50, Sigh street, Clydach Vale; second prize, Mrs S. Davies, Blaenclydach; quartette. "Ti wyddost beth ddywed fy ngha- lon," Mr John Jones and friends; poem, "Y dysgyblion yn cysgu yn yr ardd," the chaired bard was Mr Michael Thomas, Merthyr Vale; flute solo, "Der Freysdiutz," prize divided be- tween Mr H. J. Lewis, Clydach Vale, and Mr C L. John,, Penygraig; speech on "Cynygiad Hcddwch y Czar o Rwsia," Mr D. Lloyd, Clydach Vale; bass solo, "Uchelgais Cymru," 1L Willie Thomas, Trealaw; essay on "Ambi- tion," prize divided between Mr Thomas Da- vies, and Mr J. Parry Davies, Blaenclydach, duet, "Lie treigla'r Caveri," Mr W. Davies, Ynyshir, and friend; chief choral competition, "Blodeuyn Bach wyf fi mewn gardd," four choirs competed, viz., Tonyrefail, Clydach Minstrels, Blaenclydach Choir; Ynyshir Phil- harmonic prize awarded to Ynyshir Choir, with a silver-mounted bafon to the conductor.

Cardiff. At the Easter Eisteddfod at Wood street Chapel, Cardiff, the following local mucisians. were successf-ul:- Bass sdlo, It is Enough" (Mendelssohn), 22 entries—1, Mr David Davies, Pontypridd. Children's solo contest, "The Children's Home," 13 n,1aries-I, Miss Annie Davies, Toa- ypandy; 2, Miss Nellie Jones, Taff's Well. Vocal duet, competitor's own selection, 22 entries; an excellent competition—1, Mr David Davies and Miss Maggie Mills, Pontypridd. Ambulance Competition.—There was a very- (interesting competition an ambulance work, three teams appearing out of five entries. The- winning team was the Bedlinog squad, wboo. obtained 330 marks out of a. possible 400. Tho- contest was very close, for the second team, whose name did not transpire, obtained 325. marks. Dr John Williams, Cardiff, and Dr* T H. Morris,' Tylorstowri-, adjudicated. Vocal trio "The Angels' Night Song" (Dr Parry). There were nine entries, but oaly one,. party appeared, and they were adjudged worthy of the prize. They were Miss- Maggio, Mills, Pontypridd; Mr D. Davies, Pontypridd, and Mr E. Rees Evans, Dowlais.

1 Pontypridd Ccachbuildmg Co. (Prize Winners for Carriages), n KB now offering a large number of Trnpa J ftnd <jArrmtftX of VHrir>ii»des.f>ri;pttf>ii& at the v^ry lowest prices. Large Show Roosm new open— CARRIAGE WORKS, }{mUUN STREET, PONTYPRIDD. Printed and Published by the Proprietors nt the Glamorgan Free PresR" Printing Work, 22, Taff Street, Pontypridd, Parish of pontf- pridd, Oounty of Glamorgan. SATURDAY, APRIL 8th, 1899,